JP2002011249A - Game system and information storage medium - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game system and information storage medium allowing a player to easily grasp the content of a saved data or the state in saving. SOLUTION: In this game system, a desired saved data is selectively loaded from a plurality of saved data, whereby a game can be performed on the basis of the saved data. This game system comprises a saved content association image generation processing part 144 for generating a saved content association image containing at least one of a scene and character reminding the player of the content of the saved data or the state in saving; and a load information selective processing part 114 for outputting the saved content association image in the selection of the saved data to be loaded by the player. The content of a frame buffer in saving may be taken as the saved content association image. Further, a saved content association sound containing at least one of an effective sound, BGM, and character's voice reminding the player of the content of the saved data or the state in saving may be generated and outputted.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

[0001] The present invention relates to a game system and an information storage medium.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art A role playing game and an action game have a complicated story and a plurality of options are provided during the game, and various game developments are developed according to a player's selection. And it takes a lot of days to play them all.

For this reason, the game information is saved not only when the game is temporarily ended, but also at a desired point of the player, just in case. That is, by saving the game information at an important point, a branch point, or the like in the game, the player can select a desired point from among them and start the game. Therefore, the player can make another selection from a predetermined point and start the game again, enjoy a different game development, or modify the start to a better game development.

[0004] When loading the saved game information (hereinafter referred to as save data), the date and time of the save are displayed, and the player selects save data to be loaded based on the date and time. However, when there are a plurality of saved game information, it is often difficult for the player itself to grasp the content of each saved game information and the state at the time of saving. There is no problem if you just want to start the game from the most recently saved point, but if you want to start the game again from a specific place, you will be wondering which save information to choose.

[0005] Here, it is also conceivable that the temporal and geographical information in the game space at the time of saving is presented as character information to make it easier to select the game information to be loaded.

However, since the character information alone has a small impact on a player, it is difficult to remind the contents of a plurality of saved game information and the state at the time of saving.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide a game system and an information storage medium in which a player can easily understand the contents of save data and the state at the time of saving. It is to be.

[0008]

(1) The present invention is a game system capable of performing a game based on save data by selecting and loading desired save data from a plurality of save data. Means for generating a save content association image for a moving image including at least one of a scenery and a character associated with the content or state at the time of saving; and outputting the save content association image when a player selects save data to be loaded. And means for performing.

(2) The present invention is a game system capable of playing a game based on save data by selecting and loading desired save data from a plurality of save data. Means for playing a game for photographing at least one of landscape and scenery, means for generating the save content association image based on the captured image, and the save content association image when the player selects save data to be loaded. And means for outputting.

(3) The present invention is a game system capable of playing a game based on save data by selecting and loading desired save data from a plurality of save data. Means for generating a save content association image that reflects the player's emotions, difficulties or disadvantages at the time of save in at least one of the action, landscape weather or season or time, and the content of the background image; and Means for outputting the save content association image when selecting save data to be loaded.

(4) The game system according to the present invention comprises: means for generating a save content association sound including at least one of a sound effect, BGM, and a character voice, which is associated with the content of the save data or the state at the time of the save; Means for outputting the save content association sound when selecting save data to be loaded.

(5) The game system according to the present invention is characterized in that the game system includes means for allowing the player to edit at least one of the save content association image and the save content edit sound when the game data is saved.

(6) The game system according to the present invention is characterized in that a save content association image or a save content association sound is generated based on a parameter of a character at the time of saving game information.

(7) According to the present invention, a means for generating a saved content associative image of a moving image including at least one of a scene and a character associating the contents of save data or a state at the time of saving with a computer, and a player to load the moving image. A computer-readable information storage medium storing a program for functioning as a means for outputting the save content association image when selecting save data.

(8) According to the present invention, a computer executes a game for photographing at least one of a character and a landscape in a game space when saving data, and generates the save content association image based on the photographed image. means,
When the player selects save data to load,
A computer-readable information storage medium storing a program for functioning as a means for outputting the save content association image.

(9) According to the present invention, a computer is provided with at least one of the expression or movement of a character in a save content association image, the weather or season or time of a landscape, and the content of a background image. Recording a program for functioning as a means for generating a save content association image reflecting the situation or advantage or disadvantage, and a means for outputting the save content association image when a player selects save data to be loaded. Computer-readable information storage medium.

(10) According to the present invention, a means for generating a save content association sound including at least one of a sound effect, BGM, and voice of a character, which reminds a computer of the content of save data or a state at the time of save, A computer-readable information storage medium storing a program for functioning as a means for outputting the save content association sound when selecting save data to be loaded.

(11) The present invention provides a computer comprising: means for allowing a player to edit at least one of a save content association image and a save content edit sound when saving game data;
It is a computer-readable information storage medium that stores a program for functioning as a computer.

(12) According to the present invention, a computer is a computer-readable information storage medium which stores a program for generating a save content association image or a save content association sound based on a parameter of a character at the time of saving game information. is there.

[0020]

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS The present invention relates to a game system capable of playing a game based on save data by selecting and loading desired save data from a plurality of save data. Means for generating a save content association image including at least one of a scenery and a character associated with a state, and means for outputting the save content association image when a player selects save data to be loaded. Features.

An information storage medium according to the present invention is an information storage medium usable by a computer, and includes a program for executing the above means. Further, the program according to the present invention is a program usable by a computer (including a program embodied in a carrier wave), and includes a processing routine for executing the above means.

Here, the save content association image may be generated as a still image or a moving image.

The time when the player selects save data to be loaded is, for example, when a load selection screen is displayed.
The plurality of save content association images may be displayed at the same time or may be displayed individually.

The save data generally stores game data that allows the game to be restarted from the state at the time of saving. For example, it is a value necessary for game calculation such as a positional or temporal parameter value representing a save point, a parameter value of a character at the time of save, an acquired item, a score, and the like.

The state at the time of the save includes, for example, the place at the time of the save, the state of the character at the time of the save, the state of the growth stage of the character at the time of the save, and the objective state such as whether the game state at the time of save is advantageous or disadvantageous to the player. including.

According to the present invention, when the player selects the save data to be loaded, a save content association image that allows the content of each save data to be associated is displayed. For this reason, the impact on the player is greater than when text information indicating the save time or save point is simply output, and the player recalls the contents of each save data and the state at the time of the save by looking at the save content association image. It's easy to do.

Therefore, according to the present invention, it is an object to provide a game system and an information storage medium in which a player can easily understand the contents of save data and the state at the time of saving.

Further, the game system, the information storage medium and the program according to the present invention include means for performing a game effect of photographing at least one of a character and a landscape in the game space at the time of data saving, and based on the photographed image. The save content association image is generated.

According to the present invention, when saving game information,
At least one of a character and a landscape in the game space is photographed, and a save content association image is generated based on the photographed image. By taking a picture in this way, the state at the time of the save and the photographed image are linked to each other, and it is easy to remain in the impression of the player, and the save content associative image that makes it easier to grasp the content of the save data and the situation at the time of the save is generated. Can be done.

By taking a picture at the time of saving, a play element is added by the work of saving, and a more interesting game can be provided.

The game system, the information storage medium and the program according to the present invention provide a character or player at the time of saving at least one of the expression or movement of the character of the save content association image, the weather or season or time of scenery, and the content of the background image. The present invention is characterized in that an effect reflecting the situation in which the game is placed is performed to generate a save content association image.

To add an effect reflecting the situation where the character was placed at the time of saving to the expression of the character, for example,
If you are in a situation where the character is in trouble, you can generate an image of a character with a troubled expression, if you are angry at the time of saving, generate an image of a character with an angry expression, If the character is happy, an image of the character with a laughing expression is generated.

An effect reflecting the situation where the character is placed at the time of saving is added to the weather of the landscape. For example, when the character is sad at the time of saving, a landscape image with a rain pattern is generated. If the user is happy, a landscape image of a clear sky is generated.

Also, if the player is in an advantageous situation at the time of the save, an image in which the flowers of the background tree are in full bloom may be generated,
If the player is in a disadvantaged state at the time of saving, the background tree may generate a dead tree image or the like.

As described above, the effect of reflecting the situation of the character or the player at the time of saving is given to the expression or movement of the character in the saved content associative image, the weather or season or time of the landscape, or the content of the background image.
It is possible to provide a game system and an information storage medium capable of instantly judging a game situation at the time of a save from a save content association image.

Also, since a save content association image on which an effect reflecting the situation of the character or the player in the save is displayed, a game system and an information storage medium which are fun to see the save content association image itself are provided. You can do it.

The game system, the information storage medium, and the program according to the present invention further comprise: means for storing information for generating an image displayed at the time of data saving in association with save data; Means for generating the saved image as the save content associative image.

The image displayed at the time of data saving is, for example, an image displayed when the player inputs a save command. The data necessary to generate this image is, for example, an image stored in the frame buffer when the player inputs a save command.

The image displayed at the time of data saving is not limited to a still image, but may be a moving image. For example, save multiple frames of images when saving data,
Based on this, a save content association image of a moving image may be generated.

The sound output at the time of data saving, for example, the voice of a character, BGM, sound effect, or the like may be stored and output together with the saved content associative image.

According to the present invention, the image displayed at the time of data saving is output as a save content association image, so that the state at the time of saving can be strongly appealed to the player, and the situation at the time of saving can be more easily grasped. A game system and an information storage medium can be provided.

Further, the game system, the information storage medium and the program according to the present invention are characterized in that a save content association image including an item image held by the player character at the time of data saving is generated.

According to the present invention, since the item image possessed by the character appears in the save content association image,
It is possible to provide a game device and an information storage medium capable of grasping the contents of save data based on an item.

Further, the game system, the information storage medium and the program according to the present invention generate a save content associative sound including at least one of a sound effect, a BGM, and a voice of a character associating the content of the save data or the state at the time of the save. And a means for outputting the save content association sound when the player selects save data to be loaded.

The sound reminiscent of the contents of the save data or the state at the time of the save is, for example, the sound of the sea if the place at the time of the save is the coast, or the sound of the wind if a strong wind is blowing at the time of the save. Or, if an animal or the like is nearby at the time of the save, the sound of the animal or the like may be used.

According to the present invention, when the player selects save data to be loaded, the save content associative sound is output, thereby acting on the player's sense of hearing, thereby making it easier to grasp the save situation. A storage medium can be provided.

The timing of outputting the save content reminder sound may be when the cursor is positioned at the corresponding save data item or when the corresponding save data item is selected.

A game system capable of selecting and loading desired save information from a plurality of save information, wherein at least one of a sound effect, BGM, and character voice reminiscent of the content of the save data or the state of the save. A means for generating a save content reminder sound, and a means for outputting the save content reminder sound when the player selects save information to be loaded.

The information storage medium according to the present invention is an information storage medium usable by a computer, and includes a program for executing the above means. Further, the program according to the present invention is a program usable by a computer (including a program embodied in a carrier wave), and includes a processing routine for executing the above means.

The sound reminiscent of the contents of the save data or the state at the time of the save may be, for example, the sound of the sea if the place at the time of the save is the coast, the sound of the wind if a strong wind is blowing at the time of the save, or If an animal or the like is nearby when saving, the animal's singing or the like may be used. The sound of a characteristic character at the time of saving may be used.

According to the present invention, when the save data to be loaded is selected by the player, the save content associative sound is output, thereby acting on the hearing of the player, and making it easier to grasp the save situation. A storage medium can be provided.

The save content associative sound may be output when the cursor is positioned at the corresponding save data item or when the corresponding save data item is selected.

Further, the game system, the information storage medium and the program according to the present invention are characterized in that a save content association image or a save content association sound is generated based on a character parameter at the time of saving game information.

Here, the parameters of the character are variables representing, for example, a physical strength value, a compatibility value, a growth stage, and the like, and are used for game calculation. In the present invention, for example, when the physical strength value is low, a save content associative image including a thin character image is generated, or when the compatibility value is high, a pink-colored background image or a background image with a heart mark is included. Or the case of generating a save content association image of the same.

Since the parameter is a value that reflects the game situation in which the character is placed, the state of the character at the time of saving can be imagined by generating a save content association image based on the parameter at the time of saving. It is possible to generate a save content association image.

The game system, the information storage medium, and the program according to the present invention are characterized in that the game system includes means for allowing a player to edit at least one of a save content association image and a save content association sound when saving game data.

According to the present invention, at the time of saving game data, the player can edit at least one of the save content association image and the save content association sound of the save data.

Here, the editing of the saved content associative image means, for example, generating a saved content associative image by combining a plurality of part images, selecting a preferred image, and changing the color, pattern, background, etc. of the image. And so on. Also, editing of the associative sound of the save content is, for example, the sound of
This is to generate a save content association sound by selecting or combining M and sound effects.

As described above, the player himself / herself edits the save content association image and the save content association sound, thereby deepening the impression and making it easy to associate the content of the save data.

Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following, the case where the present invention is applied to a role playing game will be described as an example, but the present invention is not limited to this and can be applied to various games.

1. Configuration FIG. 1 shows an example of a functional block diagram of the game system of the present embodiment. In the figure, the present embodiment only needs to include at least the processing unit 100 (or may include the processing unit 100 and the storage unit 170, or the processing unit 100 and the storage unit 170 and the information storage medium 180), and other blocks. (For example, the operation unit 160, the display unit 190, the sound output unit 19
2. The portable information storage device 194 and the communication unit 196) can be optional components.

The processing unit 100 performs various processes such as control of the entire system, instruction of commands to each block in the system, game processing, image processing, sound processing, and the like. Processor (CPU, DSP)
Or an ASIC (gate array or the like) or a given program (game program).

The operation section 160 is for the player to input operation data, and its function can be realized by hardware such as a shooting device, a lever, a button, and a housing.

The storage unit 170 stores the processing unit 100 and the communication unit 1
A work area such as 96
It can be realized by hardware such as. Storage section 170 includes a frame buffer 172.

An information storage medium (a storage medium usable by a computer) 180 stores information such as programs and data.
D, DVD), magneto-optical disk (MO), magnetic disk, hard disk, magnetic tape, or memory (RO
M) and the like. Processing unit 10
0 performs various processes of the present invention (the present embodiment) based on the information stored in the information storage medium 180. That is, the information storage medium 180 stores information (a program or a program and data) for executing the means (particularly, the blocks included in the processing unit 100) of the present invention (the present embodiment).

A part or all of the information stored in the information storage medium 180 is transferred to the storage unit 170 when the power to the system is turned on. Information storage medium 1
The information stored in 80 is a program code for performing the processing of the present invention, image data, sound data, shape data of a display object, table data, list data, information for instructing the processing of the present invention, and instructions for the processing. The information includes at least one of information for performing processing according to.

The display section 190 outputs an image generated according to the present embodiment.
LCD or HMD (Head Mount Display)
It can be realized by hardware such as.

The sound output section 192 outputs the sound generated according to the present embodiment, and its function can be realized by hardware such as a speaker.

The portable information storage device 194 stores a player's personal data, save data 195, and the like. The portable information storage device 194 may be a memory card, a portable game system, or the like. it can.

The communication unit 196 performs various controls for communicating with an external device (for example, a host device or another image generation system), and has a function of various processors or an ASIC for communication. Hardware and programs.

A program or data for executing the means of the present invention (this embodiment) is distributed from the information storage medium of the host device (server) to the information storage medium 180 via the network and the communication unit 196. It may be. Use of the information storage medium of such a host device (server) is also included in the scope of the present invention.

The processing section 100 includes a game processing section 110, an image processing section 140, and a sound processing section 150.

Here, the game processing section 110 performs processing for accepting coins (price), setting processing for various modes, processing for proceeding with a game, setting processing for a selection screen, the position and rotation angle of the object (X, Y or Z Processing to determine the rotation angle), processing to move the object (motion processing), processing to determine the viewpoint position and gaze angle (gaze direction),
Processing to arrange objects such as map objects in the object space, hit check processing, processing to calculate game results (results, results), processing for multiple players to play in a common game space, or game over processing Various game processes are performed based on operation data from the operation unit 160, personal data and storage data from the portable information storage device 194, a game program, and the like.

The image processing unit 140 is provided with the game processing unit 110
Various image processes are performed in accordance with instructions from the user. In addition, the sound processing unit 150 includes the game processing unit 110
Various types of sound processing are performed in accordance with instructions from the user.

The functions of the image processing section 140 and the sound processing section 150 may all be realized by hardware, or all of them may be realized by a program. Alternatively, it may be realized by both hardware and a program.

The game processing section 110 includes a movement / motion calculation section 112 and a load information selection processing section 114.

The movement / motion calculation unit 112 is used to move information (position data, rotation angle data) of an object such as a target.
And operation information (position data and rotation angle data of each part of the object), a trajectory, and the like. For example, the object is moved based on operation data or a game program input by the player via the operation unit 160. And make it operate.

More specifically, the movement / motion calculation unit 112
Performs a process of obtaining the position and rotation angle of the object, for example, for each frame (1/60 second). For example, (k-
1) The position of the object in the frame is PMk-1, the speed is VMk-1, the acceleration is AMk-1, and the time of one frame is Δt.
And Then, the position PM of the object at the k frame
k and the speed VMk are obtained, for example, as in the following equations (1) and (2).

PMk = PMk−1 + VMk−1 × Δt (1) VMk = VMk−1 + AMk−1 × Δt (2) The load information selection processing unit 114 is a load selection screen for selecting save data to be loaded. Is output, the selected save data is loaded, and a process of setting a game start environment is performed.

The image processing unit 140 includes a geometry processing unit (three-dimensional coordinate calculation unit) 142 and a player color effect processing unit 1
44, and a drawing unit (rendering unit) 146.

Here, the geometry processing unit 142 performs various types of geometry processing (three-dimensional coordinate calculation) such as coordinate conversion, clipping processing, perspective conversion, and light source calculation.
Then, the save content associative image generation processing unit 144 performs a process necessary to generate a save content associative image including at least one of a landscape and a character associating the content of the save data or the state at the time of saving.

For example, at the time of data saving, the saved content association image may be generated based on the shot image by a game effect of shooting at least one of a character and a landscape in the game space.

At least one of the expression or movement of the character in the save content association image, the weather, season, or time of the landscape, and the content of the background image is subjected to an effect reflecting the situation where the character or the player is placed at the time of the save to associate the save content. An image may be generated.

The image of the frame buffer at the time of data saving may be generated as a save content association image.

The drawing unit 146 performs a process of drawing an object based on the object data after the geometry processing (after the perspective transformation) and the texture stored in the texture buffer.

The drawing unit 146 may map the changed texture to the object and a correction object having different texture coordinates corresponding to each vertex with respect to the object, and may draw the map in a superimposed manner.

The sound processing section 150 is a player sound effect processing section 1
52.

The save content association sound processing unit 152 is necessary to generate a save content association sound including at least one of a sound effect, BGM, and character voice that associates the content of the save data or the state at the time of saving. Perform processing.

Note that the image generation system of the present embodiment
A system dedicated to the single player mode in which only one player can play, or a system including not only such a single player mode but also a multiplayer mode in which a plurality of players can play, may be used.

When a plurality of players play,
The game image and the game sound to be provided to the plurality of players may be generated using one terminal, or may be generated using a plurality of terminals connected by a network (transmission line, communication line) or the like. Is also good.

2. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a load selection screen according to the present embodiment. The load selection screen is a screen displayed when selecting save data to be loaded in the game system.

As shown in the figure, in the present embodiment, each of the saved information FILE1, FILE2, FILE
3. Save content association images 210, 220, 230, 240, which are images that associate the contents with FILE4
Is displayed.

The save content association image is composed of a character and a scene of the place where the character existed at the time of the save. Then, the save content association images 210, 220, and 23
As shown at 0 and 240, the expression of each character reflects the situation at the time of saving. Therefore, the player can grasp the information content saved in each file while viewing the images 210, 220, 230, and 240, and select a file to be loaded.

As described above, the feature of the present embodiment is that a save content associative image including at least one of a landscape and a character associated with the content of save data or a state at the time of saving is generated, and the save data to be loaded by the player. Is selected, the save content association image is output.

Hereinafter, the save content association image will be described using a simple game example “Adventure of Take and Pu-kun” as an example. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an overview of a game space serving as a stage of the game “Bamboo-kun's adventure” according to the present embodiment.
The game space is a wonderland composed of various terrain such as a town, a seaside, a forest, and a mountain. Bamboo and Poo will repeat a variety of adventures in the wonderland and play a game to get treasure.

By the way, rival bamboo and pee are always
Compete for who will get the treasure first. This adventure starts from the city. Let's save here for now.
(See 310 in FIG. 3).

Bamboo leaves the town and goes to the sea. He picked up a twig in the middle of the forest and arrived safely at the beach without incident. However, since he is still wondering what to do, save here for now (save 2, see 320 in FIG. 3).

He left the town and went to the mountains. I feel lucky to pick up the sword and shield in the middle of the forest, so save here for the time being (Save 3, 330 in FIG. 3).
reference).

[0099] Then, Pee went further and arrived at the foot of the mountain. At the foot I found a new important item, the urn. One hawk suddenly appeared at the time of trying to grab the urn and came with the urn. "What are you doing, Pun, Pun?" The hawk went down to the top of the mountain with the pot on it, and said, "I can't help. Let's climb the mountain to get the pot back." You have decided and decided to start climbing. However, the mountain is likely to be dangerous, so save here for now (save 4, see 340 in FIG. 3). The journey of Passion between Take and Pou will continue.

When the game progresses in such a development, at save 1 to save 4, the game information necessary to start the game again from the state of save 1 to save 4 is saved data 1 to save data. 4 is saved in the information storage medium.

In the present embodiment, when selecting save data to be loaded, a save content associative image from which the contents of each save data can be grasped is generated. Then, since the saved content associative image is output on the load selection screen, etc., the player can recognize the content of each save data by looking at the saved content associative image, and the player can easily determine which desired save data is desired. Can be done.

FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining the configuration of a save content association image according to the present embodiment. The saved content associative image of the present embodiment includes a character 350 with an expression reflecting the game development, a background image 360 that represents the scenery where the character is located, and item images 370 and 372 as necessary.

FIG. 5 shows an example of a background image of a save content association image according to the present embodiment. Background 1 (410) is a city view, background 2 (420) is a mountain view,
Background 3 (430) is a forest view, and background 4 (440)
Is a seaside view.

As the background image of the saved content associative image of the present embodiment, the scenery of the place where the character was at the time of saving is used. For example, when a save is performed in a situation where the character is in a city as at the time of save 1 (310 in FIG. 3), the background 1 (410) is used as the background image of the save content association image.

When a save is performed in a situation in which the character is at the seaside, for example, at the time of save 2 (320 in FIG. 3), the background 4 (440) is used as the background image of the save content association image.

When a save is performed in a situation where the character is in the forest, for example, at save 3 (330 in FIG. 3), the background 3 (430) is used as the background image of the save content association image.

Also, for example, when a save is performed in a situation where a character is on a mountain like save 4 (340 in FIG. 3), the background 2 (420) is used as the background image of the save content association image.

As described above, in the present embodiment, the scene of the place where the character was at the time of saving is used as the background image of the save content associative image. Can be grasped.

FIG. 6 shows an example of a facial expression model of a character in a save content association image according to the present embodiment. Expression model 1 (510) is a model representing an angry expression,
The expression model 2 (520) is a model representing a troubled expression, the expression model 3 (530) is a model representing an ordinary expression, and the expression model 4 (540) is a model representing a smiling expression.

[0110] In the save content association image of the present embodiment, a character whose expression reflects the game development appears. For example, a character before enjoying the emotions and sorrows caused by the adventure, such as at the time of save 1, has an expression model 3 (5) which is a normal expression.
30) is used as the expression of the character in the save content association image.

For a character that is lost as in the case of save 2, for example, an expression model 2 (520) representing a troubled expression is used as the character expression of the save content association image.

Further, for a character who is willing to obtain a new item, such as at the time of save 3, for example, a facial expression model 4 (540) representing a smiling expression is used as the character expression of the save content association image. Can be

For an angry character who has been deprived of an important item, for example, at save 4 o'clock, an expression model 1 (510) representing an angry expression is used as the expression of the character in the save content association image.

As described above, in the present embodiment, since a character with a facial expression reflecting the game development appears in the save content association image, the player grasps the game situation at the time of the save and the contents of the save data based on the facial expression of the character. I can do it.

FIG. 7 is an example of an item image of a save content association image according to the present embodiment. Item 1 (610) is a sword, item 2 (620) is a shield, item 3 (630) is a twig, and item 4 (640) is a pot.

The save content association image according to the present embodiment is configured to include an item image possessed by the character as needed.

For example, since the save 1 is a state in which the adventure is about to start, the character has not yet possessed the item, and therefore no item appears in the save content association image.

Since the save 2 is performed in a state where the character has a twig, the item 3 (630) image of the twig of the save content associative image appears.

In save 3 and save 4, since the character is held with the sword and the shield, items 1 (610) and 2
The image of (620) appears.

As described above, in the present embodiment, since the item image possessed by the character appears in the save content association image, the player can remember the game situation at the time of save and the contents of the save data using the item as a clue. .

At the time of saving, new information for generating a save content associative image may be saved in addition to the conventional save data, and the content of the save information itself is the same as in the conventional format. A save content association image may be generated by a predetermined algorithm based on the information.

FIG. 8 is a diagram for explaining an example of the configuration of save data according to the present embodiment.

The save data 700 has a save number 710,
It is configured to include game progress data 720 and save content association image generation data 730. Game progress data 72
0 is data necessary for starting the game from the state at the time of each save, and is the original save data required regardless of whether or not to generate a save content association image.

Also, the data 73 for generating the save content association image
0 is data necessary for generating or editing the save content associative image, and includes an expression code 740, an item code 750, and a background code 760.

The expression code 740 is an expression code corresponding to the expression (see FIG. 5) that best represents the state in which the character is placed when saving. The item code 750 is an item code corresponding to a characteristic item (see FIG. 6) possessed by the character at the time of saving. The characteristic item is, for example, the item most recently obtained by the character. The background code 750 is a background code corresponding to the background (see FIG. 4) of the character at the time of saving.

By setting the save content associative image generation data at the time of saving as described above, the save content associative image can be generated at high speed without referring to the contents of other saved data.

FIG. 9 is a flow chart for explaining an example of processing when generating a save content association image from saved game information.

In the present embodiment, the processing of steps S10 to S50 is performed for each target save data until the processing is completed for all save data, and a save content associative image is generated.

First, the location at the time of saving is determined based on the target save data, and a background image of the save content association image is generated (step S10). Here, when generating the background image of the save content associative image, the content of the save data may be referred to, or the save content associative image generation data described with reference to FIG. 8, for example, may be referred to.

The appearance character at the time of the save is determined based on the target save data, the expression of the character image is created or changed, and the character image of the save content association image is generated and combined with the background image (step S20).
For example, in the case of using the save content association image generation data, the expression of the appearing character is generated based on the expression code.

If an item has been obtained at the time of saving, an image of the item used or obtained immediately before is generated based on the target save data, and combined with the background image and the character image (step S30). For example, when using data for generating a save content association image,
Generate an item image based on the item code.

Then, a save content association image in which the background image, the character image, and the item image if necessary are synthesized is output (step S40).

The processing of steps S10 to S40 is repeated until the processing has been completed for all save data (step S50).

3. Hardware Configuration Next, an example of a hardware configuration that can realize the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

The main processor 900 has a CD982
(Information storage medium), a program transferred via the communication interface 990, or a program stored in the ROM 950 (one of the information storage media).
Various processes such as sound processing are executed.

The coprocessor 902 assists the processing of the main processor 900, has a multiply-accumulate unit or a divider capable of high-speed parallel operation, and executes a matrix operation (vector operation) at high speed. For example, when a physical simulation for moving or moving an object requires processing such as matrix operation, a program operating on the main processor 900 instructs the coprocessor 902 to perform the processing (request ).

The geometry processor 904 performs geometry processing such as coordinate transformation, perspective transformation, light source calculation, and curved surface generation. The geometry processor 904 includes a multiply-accumulate unit and a divider capable of high-speed parallel operation, and performs a matrix operation (vector operation). Calculation) at high speed. For example, when performing processing such as coordinate transformation, perspective transformation, and light source calculation, a program operating on the main processor 900 instructs the geometry processor 904 to perform the processing.

The data decompression processor 906 performs a decoding process for decompressing compressed image data and sound data, and performs a process for accelerating the decoding process of the main processor 900. As a result, a moving image compressed by the MPEG method or the like can be displayed on an opening screen, an intermission screen, an ending screen, a game screen, or the like. The image data and sound data to be decoded are stored in the ROM 950,
It is stored on a CD 982 or transferred from outside via a communication interface 990.

The drawing processor 910 executes a high-speed drawing (rendering) process of an object composed of primitive surfaces such as polygons and curved surfaces. When drawing an object, the main processor 900
Uses the function of the DMA controller 970 to pass object data to the drawing processor 910,
If necessary, the texture is transferred to the texture storage unit 924. Then, the drawing processor 910 draws the object in the frame buffer 922 at high speed while performing hidden surface removal using a Z buffer or the like based on the object data and the texture. Further, the drawing processor 910 includes α blending (semi-transparent processing), mip mapping, fog processing, trilinear
Filtering, anti-aliasing, shading, and the like can also be performed. Then, when an image for one frame is written to the frame buffer 922, the image is displayed on the display 912.

The sound processor 930 includes a multi-channel ADPCM sound source and the like, and generates high-quality game sounds such as BGM, sound effects, and voices. The generated game sound is output from the speaker 932.

Operation data from the game controller 942, save data and personal data from the memory card 944 are transferred via the serial interface 940.

A ROM 950 stores a system program and the like. In the case of the arcade game system, the ROM 950 functions as an information storage medium,
Various programs are stored in 950. Note that a hard disk may be used instead of the ROM 950.

The RAM 960 is used as a work area for various processors.

[0144] The DMA controller 970 is provided between the processor and the memory (RAM, VRAM, ROM, etc.).
A transfer is controlled.

A CD drive 980 stores a CD 982 in which programs, image data, sound data, and the like are stored.
(Information storage medium) to enable access to these programs and data.

[0146] The communication interface 990 is an interface for transferring data to and from the outside via a network. In this case, a network connected to the communication interface 990 may be a communication line (analog telephone line, ISDN), a high-speed serial interface bus, or the like. And
Using a communication line enables data transfer via the Internet. In addition, by using a high-speed serial interface bus, other image generation systems,
Data transfer with other game systems or information processing devices (personal computers, printers, mice, keyboards, etc.) becomes possible.

It is to be noted that each means of the present invention may be entirely executed only by hardware, or executed only by a program stored in an information storage medium or a program distributed via a communication interface. Is also good. Alternatively, it may be executed by both hardware and a program.

When each means of the present invention is executed by both hardware and a program, a program (a program and a program for executing each means of the present invention using hardware) is stored in the information storage medium. Data) will be stored. More specifically, the above-mentioned program is executed by each of the processors 902, 904,
The processing is instructed to 906, 910, 930, etc., and data is passed if necessary. Then, each processor 90
2, 904, 906, 910, 930, etc. execute the respective means of the present invention based on the instruction and the passed data.

FIG. 11A shows an example in which the present embodiment is applied to an arcade game system. The player enjoys the game by operating the lever 1102, the button 1104, and the like while watching the game image projected on the display 1100. Various processors, various memories, and the like are mounted on a built-in system board (circuit board) 1106. A program (or a program and data) for executing each unit of the present invention is stored in the memory 1 as an information storage medium on the system board 1106.
108. Hereinafter, this information is referred to as storage information.

FIG. 11B shows an example in which the present embodiment is applied to a home game system. The player enjoys the game by operating the game controllers 1202 and 1204 while watching the game image projected on the display 1200. In this case, the storage information is stored in a CD 1206 or a memory card 1208, 1209, which is an information storage medium detachable from the main system.

FIG. 11C shows a host device 1300,
The host device 1300 and the network 1302 (LA
N or a wide area network such as the Internet).
An example in which the present embodiment is applied to a system including 4-1 to 1304-n will be described. In this case, the storage information is, for example, a magnetic disk device that can be controlled by the host device 1300,
It is stored in an information storage medium 1306 such as a magnetic tape device and a memory. When the terminals 1304-1 to 1304-n can generate a game image and a game sound in a stand-alone manner, the host device 1300 outputs the game image and the game sound.
A game program or the like for generating a game sound is transmitted to the terminal 1.
It is delivered to 304-1 to 1304-n. On the other hand, if it cannot be generated stand-alone, the host device 1300 generates a game image and a game sound, and transmits them to the terminals 1304-1 to 1304-1.
1304-n and output at the terminal.

In the case of the configuration shown in FIG. 11C, each means of the present invention may be executed by distributing between a host device (server) and a terminal. Further, the storage information for executing each means of the present invention may be stored separately in an information storage medium of a host device (server) and an information storage medium of a terminal.

The terminal connected to the network may be a home game system or an arcade game system. When the arcade game system is connected to a network, the portable information storage device is capable of exchanging information with the arcade game system and exchanging information with the home game system. (Memory card, portable game device) is desirable.

The present invention is not limited to the embodiment described above, and various modifications can be made.

For example, in the invention according to the dependent claims of the present invention, a configuration in which some of the constituent elements of the dependent claims are omitted may be adopted. In addition, a main part of the invention according to one independent claim of the present invention may be made dependent on another independent claim.

Also, in the present embodiment, an example has been described in which a save content association image including at least one of a scenery and a character associated with the content of the saved game information is generated and output on the load selection screen. Not limited to this. For example, a save content associative sound including at least one of a sound effect, BGM, and character voice that is associated with the save content of each save information may be generated and output on the load selection screen.

For example, an image in the frame buffer at the time of data saving may be held, and this image may be output as a save content association image.

[0158] Further, for example, a configuration may be employed in which a save content association image or sound is generated based on a parameter of a character at the time of saving game information.

Further, for example, the configuration may be such that the player edits the save content association image when the game data is saved.

The present invention loads save data in various games (fighting games, racing games, robot battle games, sports games, competition games, role playing games, music playing games, dance games, etc.) other than role playing. Applicable in case.

The present invention also provides various images such as a business game system, a home game system, a large attraction system in which a large number of players participate, a simulator, a multimedia terminal, an image generation system, and a system board for generating game images. Applicable to generation systems.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 shows an example of a functional block diagram of a game system according to an embodiment.

FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of a load selection screen according to the embodiment.

FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an overview of a game space that is a stage of a game according to the present embodiment.

FIG. 4 is a diagram for describing a configuration of a save content association image according to the present embodiment.

FIG. 5 illustrates an example of a background image of a save content association image according to the present embodiment.

FIG. 6 shows an example of a facial expression model of a character of a save content association image according to the present embodiment.

FIG. 7 is an example of an item image of a save content association image according to the present embodiment.

FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating an example of a configuration of save data according to the present embodiment.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart for explaining an operation example of the present embodiment.

FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration capable of realizing the present embodiment.

FIGS. 11A, 11B, and 11C are diagrams showing examples of various types of systems to which the present embodiment is applied; FIGS.

[Explanation of symbols]

 Reference Signs List 100 processing unit 110 game processing unit 112 movement / motion calculation unit 114 load information selection processing unit 140 image processing unit 142 geometry processing unit 144 save content associative image generation processing unit 146 drawing unit 150 sound processing unit 152 save content associative sound generation processing unit 160 operation unit 170 storage unit 172 frame buffer 180 information storage medium 190 display unit 192 sound output unit 194 portable information storage device 195 save data 196 communication unit

 ──────────────────────────────────────────────────続 き Continued on the front page (72) Inventor Takehiro Shimizu 2-8-5 Tamagawa, Ota-ku, Tokyo F-term (reference) 2C001 AA17 BA05 BA06 BA07 BB00 BB05 BB06 BB07 BC01 BC08 BC09 BC10 CB01 CB06 CB08 CC02 CC03

Claims (12)

[Claims] 1. A game system which is capable of playing a game based on save data by selecting and loading desired save data from a plurality of save data, wherein a scene reminiscent of the contents of the save data or a state at the time of saving is provided. Means for generating an associative image of a moving image including at least one of the characters as a save content associative image;
A means for outputting the save content association image. 2. A game system capable of playing a game based on save data by selecting and loading desired save data from a plurality of save data, wherein at least one of a character and a scene in a game space is saved when the data is saved. Means for playing a game of shooting, means for generating the save content association image based on the shot image, and when the player selects save data to be loaded,
A means for outputting the save content association image. 3. A game system capable of playing a game based on save data by selecting and loading desired save data from a plurality of save data, the facial expression or action of a character in a save content associative image, and the weather of a landscape. Or means for generating a save content associative image that reflects the player's emotions, difficulties, or disadvantages at the time of save in at least one of the season or time and the content of the background image, and save data to be loaded by the player When choosing
A means for outputting the save content association image. 4. A means for generating a save content association sound including at least one of a sound effect, a BGM, and a voice of a character associating the content of save data or a state at the time of saving with the save data according to any one of claims 1 to 3. When the player selects the save data to load,
A means for outputting the save content association sound. 5. The game system according to claim 1, further comprising means for allowing a player to edit at least one of a save content association image and a save content editing sound when saving game data. 6. The game system according to claim 1, wherein the save content association image or the save content association sound is generated based on a parameter of the character at the time of saving the game information. 7. A computer for generating a save content association image of a moving image including at least one of a landscape and a character associating the content of save data or a state at the time of saving, and selecting a save data to be loaded by a player. At that time,
Means for outputting the save content association image. A computer-readable information storage medium storing a program for functioning as a function. 8. A computer which executes a game for photographing at least one of a character and a landscape in a game space when saving data, a means for generating the save content associative image based on the photographed image, When selecting save data to be used,
Means for outputting the save content association image. A computer-readable information storage medium storing a program for functioning as a function. 9. The method according to claim 9, wherein the computer includes at least one of the expression or motion of the character in the save content association image, the weather or season or time of the scenery, and the content of the background image. A means for generating a save content associative image reflecting the situation, when a player selects save data to be loaded,
Means for outputting the save content association image. A computer-readable information storage medium storing a program for functioning as a function. 10. A means for generating a save content association sound including at least one of a sound effect, a BGM, and a character voice that associates the content of save data or a state at the time of saving, according to claim 7, When the player selects save data to load,
Means for outputting the save content association sound. A computer-readable information storage medium having recorded thereon a program for functioning as: 11. A computer-readable recording device for recording a program for causing a player to edit at least one of a save content associative image and a save content editing sound at the time of saving game data according to claim 7. Possible information storage medium. 12. The computer-readable information storage device according to claim 7, wherein a program for generating a save content association image or a save content association sound based on a parameter of a character at the time of saving game information is recorded. Medium.